loren85022
Explorer
I like the van - what are the specs? Is it 4x4??
The van is an 08 5.4l with a Quigley 4wd. The trailer tucks in right behind. Tows almost too easy.
Sent from my iToaster
I like the van - what are the specs? Is it 4x4??
Mine is similar to Elmo's in that it is also a utility bed turned trailer. It's still very much a work-in-progress, but as of now features air-ride suspension, onboard (hot)water, 12V/120V power, 60QT Fridge and sleeping for 3-4. It also serves as an ATV/Dirtbike hauler when the tent is removed. I'm working on a way to keep the tent and haul bikes at the same time.
Devin, that basketball hoop is dang near same height as your RTT! Some details on your jacks available?
Mine is a fiberglass mini truck util bed (20+ yrs old). The Hannibal awning really makes things easy, eh?
We're just back from a successful test-trip with sink/shower. A few mods are needed but the camp cook gave it 2 thumbs up. I'll post details shortly.
Devin,
Unfortunately I don't have any good pics of the mechanicals. I "finished" that aspect of the trailer immediately prior to/during my trip to CO last summer. Most of the plumbing/wiring is covered by the floor. I do need to strip the whole thing down for sandblast and paint this summer and intend to better document the finer points upon reassembly.
For now all I can really tell you is that the battery, air compressors(2 viair units), hot water heater, water pump, fuse block, compressed air distribution block, air bag controls, switches, 120V inverter and 12V acc. outlet are all crammed into the rearmost driver's side compartment. It took a lot of staring and trial and error to get all the puzzle pieces to fit in there cleanly and neatly, but they all do. I'll try to grab a picture for you tomorrow if I remember while I'm near the trailer. The 5-gallon air tank and 21 gallon water tank are mounted below the floor of the "bed" of the trailer. I have some pictures, mostly of the suspension in my build thread which is linked in my signature. EDIT: Whoops, just realized I don't have a signature on this forum. Here's a link to the build thread: http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/32267-Mobile-base-camp-build
I look forward to seeing yours progress. I had thought about putting my tent on legs, but I like the "low profile" it has sitting down directly on the box.
LOL.... Those are Caravan springs and shakle mounts. I looked for the heaviest set I could find at the time. There are different sets so look out. Note; there seemed to be at three spindles sizes on the Caravans, a 4 bolt light duty, a five bolt and a HD 5 bolt that's on AWD. Mine are the 5 bolt non-AWD but I think you could use the HD AWD spindles. Anyway, You have to have spindles that will carry the load along with the springs and tires. Not shown in the photos are helper springs I removed from a panel delivery Caravan. With the helper springs I have hauled 1,800 Lbs. of gravel several times. :Wow1: Yes I was near the bump stops. 1,000 lbs. is no problem. I have towed this trailer about 8,000 miles and it tows beautifully without shocks.Caravan axle worked great and should hold the weight fine,
" I have seen 8 biggies stuffed in those vans going to Walmart"
Good clearance too!
Caravan spring hangers. They are bolted on to the unibody an easy removal. The Caravan is a great donor for a home built trailer.